Earlier this week, we decided that getting a scooter for me was a priority because of Sarah’s class schedule in Berkeley for the next month and into the fall. And so we did it. Above is a photo of my brand new Piaggio Fly 150. You can see some more photos (slightly less-Photoshopped…) here. I picked it up from Jim up at Vespa Walnut Creek (I HIGHLY recommend working with them up there if you are in the area and in the market for a scooter). After getting it in Walnut Creek we took some back roads down to Livermore – Sarah was kind enough to be my pace car – which was very good on my first scooter ride. I got up to 55mph on some of the country roads on the way home, and it was a really thrilling experience.
I now know why people love motorcycles and could definitely see the thrill of a cross-country trip on a bike (probably not my scooter though). I found myself screaming at the top of my lungs, mooing at the cows, breathing in the fresh air, feeling the wind shake my cheeks (no, not THOSE cheeks). I now know why Sadie loves sticking her head out the window when we drive places. And now I have this urge to pick up Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance and finish it (I’ve started it a few times – never finished it).
So…you can stop laughing at my giddiness – but it really is wonderful. The past two nights I’ve gone out just before dusk (I have to be back before dark with my permit – no night riding) and rode down Arroyo Road in Livermore out toward the wineries. It’s such a wonderful feeling on these cool summer nights. And I think there really must be a spirituality to scooters (or motorcycles) – it sounds cheesy but when I have been out riding in the evenings, I feel closer to creation and my mind is turned to the Divine. I think I’ve heard Bruce Reyes-Chow use the words “motorcycles” and “spiritual disciplines” in the same sentences, and I can totally see that. I can see how this could be both a really practical thing for me (and a heck of a lot cheaper than a second car) and a chance to encounter God in a new way.
So – thus begins the chronicles of finding God on a scooter – or the spirituality of scooters. Expect more, I think. But until then…my Piaggio Fly 150 needs a name. Any suggestions?
